Nothing says “Holiday Season” in Hamilton quite like the always valiant, rarely successful and wholly commendable effort of Colgate’s Jewish Community to glorify the Hanukkah celebration to Christmas-like levels. Hamilton, home to exactly zero synagogues, does not have a reputation for Judea appreciation. And, as every good Jew knows, Hanukah is not altogether THAT important. It is, however, barrels and barrels of fun, and deserves to be recognized as such. This Wednesday, sophomores Arielle Sperling and Sammi Leroy, with the help of Dena Bodian, Colgate’s Jewish Chaplin and many other members of Colgate’s religious life leaders did exactly that.
Donovan’s Pub was alight with the unmistakable glow of the joyous faces of strung out, overworked students upon first sighting chocolate fondue. After enjoying a plethora of baked desserts, vanilla desserts, fruit, pretzels, pound cake and chocolate on chocolate on chocolate, attendees were entertained by the smooth stylings of both the Dischords and the Colgate 13. A rousing rendition of Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zero’s “Home” started off the Dischords unique playlist, while the 13’s rendition of “Walking in Memphis,” performed exquisitely by sophomore James ____ (NOT SURE), raised a few eyebrows at it’s decisively “Christian” undertones.
The Hanukkah spirit, however, was not to be deflated. As the performers left the stage, the crowd was happily surprised at a performance by the event’s two exquisite hosts, Sammi Leroy and Arielle Sperling. The pair performed two melodic renditions of Maroon 5’s “She Will Be Loved” and Jay Sean’s “Down.” Charismatic, on-key and beautiful to boot, the two wowed the crowd with their vocal talent, stage presence and ability to flawlessly host a truly enjoyable and necessary event. (see photo)
While Hanukkah may never be Hamilton’s first choice of holiday season décor on Broad Street or the theme of every frat/sorority mixer, for a few hours in Donovan’s Pub this past Wednesday, the Hanukkah lights burned brightly for all to enjoy.
Photo Credit: Sarah Moses